What Kind of Foods to Eat With Type 2 Diabetes - Guidelines For Diabetics
If you are wondering what kinds of foods to eat with type 2 diabetes, then you are in the right place. When you are diabetic, you must always beware of your glucose levels. Foods that help to maintain your blood sugar levels are the best foods for diabetics.
Managing Your Blood Glucose Levels
For diabetics, managing your blood sugar level is critical for maintaining good health. Any food that increases your glucose levels sharply should be avoided if possible. The foods that raise your blood glucose levels are said to have a high glycemic index. In general, low glycemic index foods are safer bets and should be your first choice when deciding what to eat.
You might not realize it, but eating too many high glycemic index foods increases the levels of body fat, which is measured by body mass index (BMI). The higher your BMI, the higher your risk of heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity.
Which Foods Should Be Avoided?
- Low-fiber cereal
- Baked goods (cookies, cakes, crackers)
- White rice
- White bread
- Pasta
Which Foods Are Healthier Choices For Diabetics?
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Whole Grains
- Legumes
To learn more about the glycemic index of various foods, take a look at the Glycemic Index Food List on About.com.
General Notes For Diabetics
- Sweets and sugar should be avoided all together.
- Limit your fruit intake to 2 to 4 servings per day.
- Increase your vegetable intake to 5 to 7 servings per day
- Processed or refined foods usually have a higher glycemic index than unprocessed foods
- Eat smaller meals to more evenly maintain your blood sugar levels
- Stick to whole grains as much as possible
- Limit fatty foods and alcohol
How To Choose A Diet Plan
If you are diabetic and need to lose a few pounds, choose a program which helps you to maintain your insulin levels. Many diet programs allow you to choose the foods you eat, provided it is balanced and you are eating proper portions. As a diabetic, you must limit your intake of refined carbohydrates, so a regimen that allows you to choose your meal plans would be beneficial. Overall, it is important to select one that you feel you can stick to, because the easier it is to follow, the more likely it is you will succeed.
